Harare, (New Ziana) – A Member of Parliament has raised alarm over a surge in cases of silicosis, a deadly lung disease affecting mine workers across Zimbabwe. Speaking in Parliament, Kwekwe Central legislator, Judith Tobaiwa called on the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to urgently address the health issue, which she says is being fuelled by unsafe mining practices and a lack of protective gear.
“My point of national interest arises from the realisation of widespread mining activities across the country, including the Kwekwe community. “While this may be accompanied by employment opportunities for our young people, unfortunately, the health dangers outweigh the employment benefits. Young people are being exposed to health hazards, in particular, silicosis,” she said.
Silicosis is a progressive and incurable lung disease caused by inhaling fine silica dust, which is prevalent in mining environments. Tobaiwa blamed the increase in cases on mining companies particularly those owned by Chinese nationals, accusing them of neglecting workers’ safety.
“The majority of the mining companies, especially those owned by Chinese nationals, are not providing employees with adequate protective safety wear and hence their workers end up contracting silicosis,” she said.
Tobaiwa claimed several deaths in Kwekwe were a result of silicosis. “This is happening across the country but I have personally witnessed death in my constituency, Kwekwe Central.
Authorities from the hospitals are confirming that about 10 people die from silicosis every month at that institution. Two days ago, we lost five people due to silicosis,” she claimed.
In light of the escalating health threat, Tobaiwa appealed to the Minister of Mines and Mining Development to present a Ministerial Statement outlining what steps are being taken to ensure worker safety in mining operations.
“I request that the Minister of Mines and Mining Development brings a Ministerial Statement to advise on measures that the Government is taking to enforce safe working standards at all mining sites to save people’s lives,” she said.
The disease is incurable once detected and can lead to severe respiratory issues and increased vulnerability to diseases like tuberculosis. According to recent statistics, 19 percent of artisanal and small-scale miners in Zimbabwe are affected by silicosis.
New Ziana
